Ben Stokes makes way for Sam Curran in 2nd Test

England all rounder Ben Stokes was doubtful of making it to the playing XI as he picked a hamstring injury on brink of the 2nd test. Fielding drills don’t give you the best results every time. Surrey all rounder Sam Curran was called up as a cover for Ben Stokes in case he fails to recover.

Eventually on 1st June fortune favored the uncapped player as he is set to make his International debut. Stokes not being 100% rules him out of the playing XI. Sam Curran is an exciting all rounder from Surrey. He was previously called up for a T20 series but wasn’t picked up for playing. So this will be his first outing for England.

Losing the first Test on home soil, brought a lot of criticism and scrutiny by cricket pandits. Becomes very important to square series in order to put breaks on the 8 match win less streak. Even a Draw will be equivalent to a defeat.

James Anderson, Alastair Cook and Joe Root need to step up if they wish to make a game out of it. England are a very cruel side when it comes to playing in their own backyard. Pakistan comprehensively beating them shows a lot of character and promise. It will be a intense 5 days at Headingley for sure.